Burglar attacks female paramedic at St John ambulance station in Warkworth

A burglar has injured a St John ambulance officer after breaking into the Warkworth station. Photo / Google

A female paramedic has been taken to hospital after being kicked unconscious by a burglar breaking into a St John ambulance station north of Auckland.

The woman had just returned alone to the Warkworth ambulance station on Brown Rd at about 11.30pm last night after finishing treating a patient.

St John director of operations Norma Lane said the intruder then attacked her and kicked her unconscious.

"The paramedic was able to signal for St John Clinical Communications and police support before being rendered unconscious," Lane said.

She was taken to North Shore hospital in a moderate condition before being discharged this morning.

"This is a despicable and unacceptable act on our colleague," Lane said.

Police are investigating the attack today. Photo / Supplied

"She has endured an horrific ordeal while on duty to help others. We are supporting our officer and her colleagues while working with police."

The offender fled the scene despite police efforts to find them, and had not yet been located.

Inspector Mark Fergus said the investigation would continue today

"A scene guard has been in place overnight at the address and police remain at the property this morning conducting a scene examination.

"Police officers will also be conducting area inquiries and speaking with nearby residents."

Ambulances responding to emergencies from the Warkworth station have been temporarily relocated while the police investigation takes place.

"St John takes very seriously the safety of its officers and has systems, alerts and supportive measures in place to ensure their security and well-being," the organisation said.

"Any abuse or assault against ambulance officers is unacceptable and will not be tolerated."

St John said it supported a parliamentary bill, titled the Protection for First Responders and Prison Officers Bill, along with the introduction of tougher penalties for those who assault emergency workers.

St John was also three years into a four-year process of phasing out shifts involving a single worker, such as the one the paramedic attacked last night was working.

Ninety-seven percent of ambulance responses were now double crewed, and double crew shifts were due to start in Warkworth next month.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Waitemata Police on 09 839 0697 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.